dictates

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

There’s no law that dictates how Congress should resolve the looming Medicare financial crisis.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 15, 2026

This album – 100% independently produced and distributed outside of the powerful entertainment machine that had forged Choi – rejects the dictates of a society that first rejected him.

From Salon • Jun. 5, 2026

After taking the moment in, the pair headed to the clubhouse bar and, as tradition dictates, bought drinks for fellow golfers.

From BBC • Jun. 5, 2026

The margins are so slim, however, that if a hitter isn’t convinced enough on a borderline strike call, and the situation dictates caution, he may not challenge.

From Los Angeles Times • May 29, 2026

Portions of it are constantly changing hands, and it is the chance of seizing this or that fragment by a sudden stroke of treachery that dictates the endless changes of alignment.

From "1984" by George Orwell